State Senator Marty Golden named Bay Ridge resident and activist Aida Y. Nicolaou a 2008 “New York State Senate Woman of Distinction,” recognizing “Aida’s outstanding work on behalf of our community” during a ceremony in Albany.
Nicolaou turned was born in Beirut, Lebanon, married and had four daughters; Nicole, Grace, Carmen and Marlene, before moving from country to country to escape the war in Lebanon. The mother of four settled in Brooklyn in 1985 and single-handedly raised her daughters while waiting for her husband to rejoin the family five years later. During this time, Nicolaou mastered the English language and became a licensed real estate agent.
Nicolaou is very active in the Bay Ridge community, especially with the St. Nicholas Home, where she has served as a devoted member of the Ladies auxiliary, and as a member of the Board of Directors. Since the death of her beloved husband in 2001, Nicolaou has devoted much time and energy to enjoying her growing family in which she takes great pride. She has lived out the “American Dream” and has paved the way for her daughters to also do so.
Senator Golden stated, “Aida Nicolaou is among the remarkable women in our midst whose life, work and special accomplishments have made our community that much better. Aida has served as special examples to others and I am so proud to have the opportunity to recognize her efforts and salute her for all that she has done.”
“On behalf of the entire community, I thank Aida for the special pride she brings to our community,” Golden concluded.
Previous winners in the annual event have included leading women from the worlds of business, academics and civic life, as well as those who have performed heroic or selfless acts, made significant discoveries or provided examples of personal excellence against difficult odds.
